Recently, my family has decided to live a healthier lifestyle. Healthier diets can be extremely hard on the family budget. However, I have found several great places locally that you can find great produce, eggs and meat for affordable prices.

One of the first places I found great prices at was the Leavenworth's Farmers Market. I was able to purchase eggs from local farmers for considerably less than what I would find them priced a specialized grocery store. I was also able to purchase grass-fed beef from Lamborn Farms at the Farmer's Market. The prices for beef at the Farmer's Market were far better prices than what I would pay at area grocery stores. The Leavenworth Farmer's Market is open on Saturdays from 7 a.m. until 11 a.m. and on Wednesdays from 3 until 6 p.m.

Another great place to find fruits and vegetables at great prices is Denney's Produce. Recently, I purchased an apple, an orange, a bag of grapes, an onion, a container of strawberries, a container of mushrooms and a pepper for $8.75. I almost pay that price for the grapes alone at area grocery stores.

Schwinn Produce Farm is another great place to get produce for wonderful prices. The farm has been locally owned and operated for more than 30 years. Our family has enjoyed picking our own strawberries and it did not break the bank. Picking strawberries was not only a fun family activity, but it also provided our family with a healthy snack. The farm offers several different types of vegetables and fruits throughout various seasons. You can find out more about what this farm has to offer by going to http://www.schwinnproducefarm.com/index.html.

When looking to save money on your grocery bill I would remind area residents not to forget your local farmer and produce stores. In most cases you will find their prices cheaper and you are supporting your local economy.

Do you have money saving tips? E-mail them to localnews2005 @yahoo.com